Even though Madrid is the capital of Spain, Barcelona is much more popular destination among tourists. If it is because of the presence of the sea, architecture or just the overall feeling, hard to say. But we have to agree with this statement. Of course, we do not want to say that Madrid is a bad destination, that’s not true and for us it has its magic when you arrive from cold Czech autumn to its 24°C version. Finally, we were sad that we could not stay a few days longer.

Landing approach to Barajas Airport from anywhere in daylight renders a completely unique view of the surrounding landscape which plays with all shades of brown and orange, looking like the landscape of planet Mars. After that more surprising is the fact how many and how big parks Madrid has. And let’s start with the most interesting one, El Retiro. A perfect green oasis where we can imagine spending time each day. Whether watching tourists admiring the magnificent “greenhouse” Palacio de Cristal or boating across the water in front of Monumento Alfonso XII. Lots of statues or various trees and shrubs, many of them carefully trimmed into interesting shapes. In the hot summer when temperatures can reach even 40°C in the shade, El Retiro Park is definitely a great place to escape. Btw., Botanical Garden is adjoining El Retiro and must be an experience in itself but this time we didn’t make it.

Few steps from it is the city’s main train station Madrid Atocha. Even if arrived by plane, you can’t miss this place. Inside you can find a wonderful garden full of tall palm trees, banana trees and others, in ponds roam around or rest hundreds of freshwater turtles and you can completely lose a track of the fact that you are on such a hectic place like a train station. Something similar should be everywhere, including airports, because it is making perfectly soothing impression in contrast to the background noise around.

And to have it complete, move to the Parque del Oeste. On it’s south end you can find the ancient Egyptian temple Debod. It was transferred to Madrid from Egypt in 1968 as a thank you for helping with the excavation. Admission is free but you need to check the exact opening hours. Then walk to the north until you reach the bottom station of the cable car Teleférico which takes you to the stunning views of Madrid to the top of the largest green areas far and wide, Casa de Campo. Most extensive park has on its bottom perimeter Madrid sports Arena, amusement park and zoo. You will meet here a lot of cyclists and joggers and park’s immaculate lawns invite for long evening picnics with spectacular views.

Once you went back by cable car “to the city” it is best to go to the Royal Palace. It is vast, majestic complex and next to it is a far pompous looking Almudena Cathedral (Santa María la Real de La Almudena). From the Cathedral towards the city center you will get to Plaza Mayor which is actually enclosed square looking like a huge courtyard of a castle. Be sure to stop at the Mercado de San Miguel, great market with full of fresh delicacies and wines. Then it’s just a short walk to the Puerta del Sol, another giant square, node of bus stops and also the place where all kinds of events, demonstrations, etc. are held (and there is also the only Apple store in Madrid city).

As you continue along Calle de Alcallá, you will reach one of the iconic buildings of Madrid – Metropolis. A few minutes walk away is Plaza de Cibeles where you’ll find the world famous fountain and Palacio de Comunicaciones building which now houses the city hall. When you look around you’ll see towards the north Torres de Colón, two skyscrapers connected at top with platform with antennas which looks like electrical connector =)

And that’s all for today from typical landmarks and similar places in Madrid. We were not everywhere, we did not have so much time. Museums have been omitted entirely (OK, we saved them for next time =P ). However, thanks to the great location of our 7 Islas Hotel, to which we have devoted a separate article, we had it all pretty close and we used public transport for airport transfer only. But do not worry, we prepare also a guide which will focus on cafes, restaurants and shops =). Stay tuned.